The Cook Wedding Session

Ann Marie and Ian Cook

I photographed a wedding once...a long, long time ago...with a little Kodak instamatic camera in the dark ages of film photography (would have been about 1979). It was by no means a professional endeavour but in my youth I had a great time and wasn't intimidated by it at all. Fast forward to 2015 and along came the second wedding I had the opportunity to shoot. This one was more intimidating, partly because I now have enough knowledge and experience to know that I should be intimidated! In the end it was exciting, fun and successful.

If I were to find one word to describe Ann Marie I would use the word 'elegant'. This bride has a classic style and she looked stunning on her wedding day.

I had gone to college with Ann Marie and over the past couple of years we found each other on facebook. She asked if I would be interested in doing her wedding photos. I was happy for the opportunity but I did let Ann Marie and her husband to be, Ian, know that I had no experience at wedding photography. This was definitely a learning experience for me.

The wedding was an intimate affair held at Whitehern Museum in Hamilton. The grounds are beautifully maintained and perfect for small group photography. It was a very hot day but there was enough shade that it wasn't too painful although most of the group were happy to be done in a short time.

The ring bearer (Ian's grandson) was beyond cute. I suggested that they rent him out to wedding parties...he was an angel and lasted the entire day without complaint. Look at how handsome this young man is!

The room which was the coach house of the original home, was very rustic with stone walls and wood trim. It is a perfect spot for an intimate wedding.

Chris was my second for this event and we were invited to the reception and dinner. There were no formal photos at the dinner but we kept the cameras at the ready and took a few candid shots.

If I had it to do over again I would get closer during the ceremony. I was too concerned about being in the way and I would temper that and get in there a bit more. I would also do more formal shooting at the reception. All in all the day was a success. Ian and Ann Marie ordered prints and a book, their guests expressed their happiness with the experience. They seemed relaxed and very agreeable with the group shots. Everyone was fun and friendly at the reception and dinner. I was honoured to have been offered this opportunity and while I am not a 'wedding photographer' I would more than willingly consider other wedding shoots after this pleasant experience!